Asparagus Fern

Asparagus densiflorus ‘Sprengeri'

Characteristics

Category

Ground Cover

Size

3' x 2'

Flower Color

White

Flower Season

Spring

Exposure

Full Sun to Partial Shade

Water

Growth Rate

Fast

Hardiness

24°F

Notes:

Description

Asparagus fern is a mounding, spreading, evergreen that grows one to two feet with a three-foot spread. It is a fast-growing plant with bright green to yellow green, airy, fernlike, delicate leaves, and tiny thorns. It's arching stems and branches cascade and trail, making this a great groundcover to use in the landscape. In spring, it produces small, waxy, white, inconspicuous flowers that bloom sporadically. After flowering, small clusters of red berries appear that are toxic to humans, but are eaten by birds and rodents. Use it as an understory plant, in coastal areas, containers, planters, and hanging pots with its foliage spilling over the sides, or cascading over rocks, boulders, or embankments. Also, plant it as an informal groundcover in tropical landscapes and around pools, water features, and fountains. This is a great filler plant to use for a splash of green, lush foliage. Asparagus fern is very hard to remove because it produces underground tubers and has an extensive root system. This plant can be invasive in some locations, but is a tough, pest-free groundcover that is very easy to grow. It is native to South Africa.

Maintenance

It is hardy to about twenty-four degrees Fahrenheit. If frost-damaged, prune aggressively to the ground, and this fast-growing plant will recover quickly in the spring with spikes of new foliage. When pruning, wear gloves and long sleeves to protect against its small, aggressive thorns. It takes full sun, partial shade, and some reflected heat. This plant needs regular water, especially during the warm growing season. Fertilize it in the spring with a nitrogen-based fertilizer.